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PARIS - The northern hemisphere rugby powerhouses face a nightmare scenario this week - possible elimination from the rugby World Cup before the quarterfinals.
The biggest scalp would be that of world champions England, who face the in-form Tongans, with defeat meaning the ignominious tag of being the first titleholders to exit at the first hurdle.
However, the most precariously placed is Triple Crown winners Ireland, who have to score four tries and beat Argentina - a side that have not conceded one so far, even in the 17-12 win over France - to progress.
Wales and Scotland also face do-or-die matches.
The Welsh take on the unpredictable Fijians while the Scots face their Six Nations bogey team Italy.
England looked to be a slightly improved unit in their 44-22 victory over Samoa on Saturday, though at one point the Samoans were within four points of them.
Even talismanic kicker Jonny Wilkinson was not perfect with the boot on his return to the World Cup scene, four years after his drop goal secured the northern hemisphere their first Webb Ellis trophy.
However, England's seasoned coach Brian Ashton promised the Tongans a battle next Friday.
"It's a fight to the death on Friday night," Ashton said after Tonga had pushed South Africa all the way on Saturday before losing 30-25.
If anyone could lay claim to having had a nightmare tournament then it is the Irish.
From three average performances - the worst being the 14-10 defeat of Georgia - to rumours of star fly-half Ronan O'Gara's private life and fullback Geordan Murphy admitting he was angry at being dropped for the 25-3 defeat by France, the Irish could be forgiven for wanting to pack their bags.
However, British and Irish Lions lock Donncha O'Callaghan - who along with fellow Lion Paul O'Connell has been under-par - swore that the Irish could raise themselves against the Pumas.
"It's a chance to go out and put in a big performance," said O'Callaghan.
"The fellas are down now but we've got to pick ourselves up and go out next week because this is something we've trained hard for."
The Welsh may see themselves as slight favourites against the colourful Fijians.
However, embattled Welsh coach Gareth Jenkins is not getting carried away.
"They (the Fijians) are going to be a threat," said the 56-year-old, who has a record of just six wins in 19 tests.
"They have world-class players, they have physicality and they have individual talent - they can score tries from anywhere."
The Scots, however, may fancy their chances despite their second string side failing to register a point against the All Blacks as Italy have not looked impressive at this World Cup.
"We have a tremendous opportunity to do something special for the Scottish crowd in this competition," said Scotland coach Frank Hadden following the 40-0 defeat to the All Blacks.
- AFP
